March 15, 2012 | 4 minute read
Abdominoplasty is a popular type of cosmetic surgery that can dramatically improve a patient’s physical appearance and self esteem. By eliminating loose skin and tissue from the area around the abdomen and waistline, a skilled plastic surgeon can achieve a firmer, sexier, and more youthful contour to the body. Many men and women find that after tummy tuck, they have the slimmer midsection and stomach that they always wanted. Women commonly use tummy tuck to regain their pre-pregnancy bodies following childbirth.
As with any type of surgery, there is a period of recovery associated with tummy tuck. The surgery is usually performed in a doctor’s office, a hospital, or some other outpatient medical facility with the patient sedated under general anesthesia. Therefore, tummy tuck generally involves a longer period of recovery and recuperation than other types of surgery that are performed under local anesthesia.
San Francisco plastic surgeon Kimberly Henry has experience helping her patients feel and look younger. She will meet with you before your tummy tuck surgery and answer all your questions about the recovery period so that you will understand what is involved with the surgical process. Recovering properly from tummy tuck can help ensure that you achieve the results you want after your surgery.
Tummy Tuck Recovery: What to Expect
In most cases, tummy tuck patients are able to return home the same day of their surgery. In some cases, such as those involving the removal of larger amounts of tissue, an overnight stay in a hospital is necessary. Even patients who return home the same day as their surgery may be placed on several days of bed rest to help them properly recover from the procedure. Dr. Henry may also prescribe painkillers to help you rest and recuperate comfortably from tummy tuck.
It is common for tummy tuck patients to feel a bit of discomfort in the abdomen for several weeks after surgery. Common side effects of tummy tuck also include:
- Abdominal soreness or tenderness
- Redness, swelling, or bruising around the abdomen
Tips to Reducing Tummy Tuck Recovery Side Effects
One of the most common side effects of tummy tuck is swelling of the abdomen. Ways to reduce this post-surgical swelling and discomfort include:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Stick to eating low-sodium foods
- Massage the area around the abdomen to encourage circulation of fluids
- Use a cold compress or ice on the surgical area
- Wear a compression garment
Taking Time Off to Recover
For patients who work, taking at least two weeks off to recover from tummy tuck is a good idea. If you work in a job that requires you to be physically active, you may be advised to take off even more time to help reduce the chances of injury or complications from the surgery.
Our San Francisco tummy tuck patients who care for young children at home should make arrangements to have someone else be primarily responsible for the children during the patient’s period of recovery.
Generally speaking, tummy tuck patients should expect to avoid strenuous physical exercise and other similar activities for about six weeks after surgery. Dr. Henry can evaluate your individual medical situation and recommend an appropriate period of recovery.
If a drain is placed in the area of the incision to remove fluids, be sure to take care to properly clean and maintain the drain to help prevent infection or other complications.
Contact Our San Francisco Tummy Tuck Surgeon
If you are considering tummy tuck and have questions about the recovery period following the procedure, we encourage you to contact Dr. Kimberly Henry today. Dr. Henry is a skilled surgeon and experienced in performing tummy tuck. She can advise you on what you can expect during the recovery period following your surgery.
